You’re ready to go—to take steps toward a healthier, more active lifestyle—but your body hasn’t quite caught up with you yet. A common hurdle many people face is knee pain and discomfort due to excess weight. Knee orthoses can help you move forward on your journey to an active lifestyle. Below are the different types of knee-related orthoses designed to assist those who are overweight, plus some helpful tips for both newcomers and those with prior orthotic experience.
Types of Knee-Related Orthoses
Knee Braces
- Prophylactic Knee Braces: Designed to prevent knee injuries and often used by athletes, they provide all-around support and stability to the knee joint.
- Functional Knee Braces: Typically prescribed post-injury or post-surgery, this knee brace is most likely to be used to provide stability to the knee as individuals return to activities. A hinge on the side of the brace allows your knee to bend, but limits lateral movements to promote faster healing.
- Unloader Knee Braces: Specifically designed for individuals with conditions like osteoarthritis, these braces help redistribute pressure away from the affected area, relieving pain and promoting mobility.
Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves are less rigid than braces and often made from neoprene. Some sleeves may come with hinges. They provide compression and warmth, which can help reduce the pain and swelling in your knee joint.
Custom Orthotics
Custom knee orthoses are tailored to your specific needs. A healthcare professional will assess your gait, knee condition, and body weight to create a personalized solution that works for you.
Benefits of Knee Orthoses for Overweight Individuals
- Pain Reduction: help alleviate pain and discomfort, making it easier for you to engage in physical activities you otherwise couldn’t.
- Improved Mobility: provide you stability and support, enabling you to move with greater precision, confidence, and ease.
- Prevention of Further Injury: reduce the risk of further damage to your joints and ligaments.
Obtain and Use a Knee Orthosis
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before using knee orthoses, consult a healthcare professional, such as your primary care provider or orthopedic specialist, to discuss your particular condition and determine what style of knee orthosis is best for you.
- Consult an Orthotist: The orthotist will use the prescription from your doctor and the information obtained during your consultation to determine the best design of knee orthosis for your needs. Measurements and or casting could occur at this visit.
- Proper Fit: Ensure that your orthosis fits properly to provide the appropriate support and avoid causing discomfort.
- Gradual Introduction: If you’re new to knee orthoses, start with shorter periods of use and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts, or as ordered by your doctor and or orthotist.
- Combine with Exercise: Orthoses can help you engage in physical activities, but it’s important to seek care from a PT for specific strengthening exercises that could reduce injury to your knee when not in the orthosis.
- Weight Management: Combining orthoses with a balanced diet and weight management plan is essential for long-term joint health.
Get Custom Knee Orthoses with Pongratz!
Knee orthoses can be a valuable aid for those striving to lead a healthier and more active life. Whether you’re new to orthotics or have prior experience, Pongratz will help provide you with the best solution for your needs. The latest orthotic technologies can relieve pain, improve mobility, and assist in injury prevention, allowing you to take positive steps toward a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Remember, knee orthoses are just one piece of the puzzle—maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity are equally important components of your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
